image sourced from original article at A report by the Congressional Research Service found that at least 42 United States military aircraft were lost or damaged during Operation Epic Fury, launched against Iran on February 28. The aircraft included fighter jets, refuelling planes, surveillance aircraft, helicopters and drones. The total number could change due to classification issues and ongoing combat assessments.
The conflict triggered swift retaliation from Tehran, escalating tensions across the region. Lawmakers were told during a House Appropriations subcommittee hearing that the estimated cost of military operations has risen to 29 billion dollars, largely driven by updated repair and replacement estimates for damaged equipment.
Defence analysts warn that the long term financial burden could increase further if operations continue. Major expenses include replenishing missile stockpiles, replacing destroyed aircraft and sustaining extended naval and air deployments. President Donald Trump has proposed a 1.5 trillion dollar defence budget for fiscal year 2027, alongside a request for more than 200 billion dollars in additional funds to restock munitions and accelerate weapons production.
